City actively working to address Ombudsman’s recommendations regarding Handi-Transit service

January 8, 2019

Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service Update: Bowman Avenue Fire

Released: 9:00 a.m.

Winnipeg, MB – At 11:34 p.m. on January 7, 2019, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) crews responded to reports of smoke in a single family bungalow in the 200 block of Bowman Avenue. Upon arrival, crews found a working fire and launched an interior offensive attack. Due to deteriorating conditions, with heavy fire in the attic area of the home, crews were forced to exit the structure and fight the fire defensively. The fire was declared under control at 1:04 a.m.

Occupants of the home had self-evacuated prior to WFPS crews arrival. Two adults and one child were assessed for smoke inhalation on scene however no transports to hospital were required. No other injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire is under investigation and no damage estimates are available at this time.

Drivers in the area should exercise caution as the water used to fight the fire covered the road and has now frozen. City of Winnipeg will be monitoring the area and applying sand and de-icing agents as required.

City actively working to address Ombudsman’s recommendations regarding Handi-Transit service

Released: 10:49 a.m.

Winnipeg, MB – Today, the Manitoba Ombudsman’s Office released a report outlining recommendations for Handi-Transit service in response to a complaint filed by the Independent Living Resource Centre (ILRC) in February of 2016.

Winnipeg Transit takes the ILRC’s concerns very seriously and is actively working to address the recommendations outlined in the Ombudsman’s report. As a supporting organization of the disabled community, it is a priority for Handi-Transit, now Winnipeg Transit Plus, to provide a service that is accessible to all its clients.

In reviewing the ILRC’s complaint, Winnipeg Transit Plus provided additional information and clarifications on some of its policies to assist the Ombudsman’s Office with their investigation.

Winnipeg Transit Plus is a service of Winnipeg’s public transit system that provides door-to-door transportation for people who are unable to regularly use the City’s fixed route transit system because they are legally blind or have a physical disability that significantly impairs their mobility. Winnipeg Transit Plus registrants use a variety of mobility aides including scooters, canes, walkers, and both manual and motorized wheelchairs.